National banks and federal savings associations continue to face a number of risks as they seek to improve profits in the face of slow economic growth and a prolonged low interest rate environment. Banks are layering risk back into the system in ways that are difficult to quantify at this point in the cycle. That is why risk management must remain a top priority according to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s semiannual assessment of risk.
Bank Secrecy Act
FinCEN, Federal Reserve Finalize Rule Amending Definitions in the Bank Secrecy Act
The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), a bureau of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, and the Federal Reserve Board on Tuesday announced a final rule amending the definitions of “funds transfer” and “transmittal of funds” under regulations implementing the Bank Secrecy Act. The final rule adopts the amendments as proposed in November 2012.
OCC Discusses Bank Secrecy Act
Comptroller of the Currency Thomas J. Curry told a conference on money laundering enforcement that the Bank Secrecy Act is a key element in the fight against illegal drugs and terrorism, and said meeting the challenges of the future will require increased diligence on the part of the industry and government alike.